Young people aged 18 to 35 worldwide can apply to help shape global water policy ahead of the December 2026 summit.
The UAE has launched a new global initiative to empower young leaders to help shape international water policy ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference, which will be held in Abu Dhabi this December.
Announced during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York, the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme aims to train and support up to 100 young delegates from around the world, equipping them to play an active role in tackling one of the world’s most pressing challenges — water security.
The programme is led by the Arab Youth Centre (AYC) in strategic partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF).
It aims to increase youth involvement in global decision-making processes and help accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.
Focus on water-stressed regions
The programme will place particular emphasis on supporting young leaders from water-stressed regions, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and platforms needed to contribute to solutions for global water challenges.
The initiative will bring together participants from six regions worldwide, with a special focus on young leaders from water-stressed areas in Africa, the Arab world and the Asia-Pacific region.
From September to November, participants will join an online capacity-building programme covering key areas such as water governance, climate action, sustainability, innovation, financing and international policymaking.
They will also engage with national delegations and institutional partners before selected participants take part in one of the six Interactive Dialogues at the UN Water Conference, taking place in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10.
Investing in youth leadership
Dr Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Vice Chairman of the Arab Youth Centre, said empowering young people represents an investment in a more sustainable and collaborative future.
“At the Arab Youth Centre, we believe that empowering young people is an investment in a more collaborative and sustainable future. This programme reflects our commitment to equipping youth with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to contribute meaningfully to international dialogue and the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of strengthening global partnerships and empowering young leaders to connect cultures and contribute to solutions for shared international challenges.
Giving youth a voice
Abdulla Balalaa, UAE Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, said young people should have a stronger role in shaping global water diplomacy.
“The UAE firmly believes that international cooperation must reflect the realities and aspirations of young people, who are the architects of today’s and tomorrow’s solutions,” he said.
He added that the Global Youth Water Envoys Programme will create a platform for young leaders to contribute meaningfully to global water discussions and play an active role in advancing solutions ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference and beyond.
Kate Hampton, Chief Executive Officer of the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), highlighted the growing impact of water stress on children’s lives and future opportunities.
“The Global Youth Water Envoys Programme will equip young people with training and institutional backing to participate in this conference, to champion innovation and investment in practical solutions that meet their needs,” she said.
Applications now open
Applications for the programme are now open worldwide. Young people aged 18 to 35 can apply if they have working proficiency in English, demonstrate experience or interest in areas including water governance, climate, sustainability, policy, innovation or finance, and are committed to participating throughout the programme while promoting youth engagement in their communities.
